HYDROGEO.&HYDROCHEM.STUDY OF SHITHATHA QUADRANGLE

Abstract

Shithatha Quadrangle is considered as a part of three structural zones which are: The Mesopotamian zone which belongs to the unstable shelf , Salman and Rutba – Jazira zones which belong to the stable shelf and characterized by faults system . The geological outcrops in the area represent : Rutba–M’sad , Tayarat , Um–Elradhuma , Dammam , Euphrates , Nyfayl , Fatha and Zahra formations , in addition to the Quaternary deposits . The topography of the area is relatively flat and is intersected by valleys . The area gradually and gently slopes towards Mesopotamian plain . Euphrates , Dammam , Um–Elradhuma and Tayarat formations are considered as the main upper groundwater aquifer in the area , while Rutba–M’sad formation represents deep aquifer .The groundwater flow is from the west to the east towards Mesopotamian plain and the Euphrates river . Groundwater quality is variable . It is chloride in the northern and northeastern parts of the area , Sulphatic in most of the map area , and bicarbonatic water in the western and northern parts of the area . The salinity of water ranges between less than 1000 mg/L (fresh water) to more than 5000 mg/L (saline water) . Water of wells and springs is not suitable for human drinking , but it is suitable for the drinking of animals . Most of wells and springs water can be used for irrigation and building purposes . Water of some wells and springs can be used for industrial purposes also .